Cleveland Browns QB Battle: Watson vs. Sanders - Who Will Start? (2026)

The Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition is heating up, with Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders neck-and-neck for the starting role. Coach Todd Monken, who initially hoped to name a starter by the end of the minicamp, now admits it's too close to call. On the first day, Sanders took the majority of the reps with the first team, and Monken confirmed that Watson will take the majority of the reps on Wednesday, with both splitting reps on Thursday.

Monken praised both quarterbacks' progress, noting their high-level performance and the difficulty of taking a summer break from the competition. However, he remains non-committal about the starting quarterback, citing the need to see how they perform with pads on and against opponents. This cautious approach is understandable, given the quarterbacks' strong performances and the importance of making the right decision.

The Browns' offensive line is also in flux, with Monken experimenting with different players to find the best five. The team's depth chart is still being sorted out, and Monken is taking a methodical approach to finding the right combinations. The competition is fierce, with multiple players vying for positions, and Monken is impressed by the players' talent and determination.

In other news, the Browns have signed rookie wide receiver KC Concepcion to a fully guaranteed four-year contract worth roughly $20 million. This move ensures that all of the team's rookie draft picks are under contract. The team is also managing injuries, with defensive tackle Mason Graham in a walking boot and not practicing, and defensive end Maliek Collins continuing his rehabilitation from a season-ending injury.

Overall, the Browns are in a state of flux, with key positions still up for grabs and the team working to find the best combinations. The competition is fierce, and Monken is taking a measured approach to decision-making, ensuring that the team is in the best possible position for the upcoming season.

Cleveland Browns QB Battle: Watson vs. Sanders - Who Will Start? (2026)
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